West Ham United are expected to be active in the transfer market as they look to strengthen their attacking options before the summer window closes.
With uncertainty surrounding several members of their forward line, the Hammers are stepping up plans to recruit a new striker capable of leading the attack next season.
The London club could find themselves with just one recognised senior striker if anticipated departures materialise, making the addition of a proven goalscorer a priority.
With Wilson’s contract expiring and no talks of an extension, Fulkrug’s departure on a free transfer being discussed and AC Milan’s interest in Castellanos, Nuno Espirito Santo could be left with just Pablo as the man responsible for leading the line.
As a result, one player who has caught their attention is FC Midtjylland striker Franculino Dju.
The Guinea-Bissau international enjoyed a prolific campaign in Denmark, scoring 22 goals to establish himself as one of the most exciting young forwards outside Europe’s biggest leagues.
However, West Ham are far from alone in their admiration.
Interest in the 22-year-old has grown significantly over the past year, with several Premier League clubs monitoring his progress as his reputation continues to rise following his impressive goalscoring exploits.
Now, according to ExWHUEmployee, writing on The West Ham Way Patreon, West Ham are ready to make their move for Dju this summer.
The report states the Hammers have tracked the forward for some time and could step up their interest as they look to bolster their attacking department.
Any deal is unlikely to be straightforward, though. Everton and Fulham are both believed to be weighing up moves of their own, while Liverpool and Arsenal have also scouted the striker over the past year.
That means West Ham are not currently viewed as favourites in what could become a competitive race for his signature.
Liverpool’s interest appears to have centred on scouting rather than pursuing an immediate transfer, but the Reds’ recruitment staff have continued to keep tabs on emerging attacking talent across Europe.
Franculino’s performances have evidently been enough to place him firmly on the radar at Anfield.
With multiple Premier League clubs now circling and West Ham looking to address a clear need in attack, the coming weeks could prove decisive in determining whether Dju makes the move to England ahead of the new season.